Dave C.
Courtney J.
Jeff D.
Maria L.
Reliable Car Shipping Company in Chicago
Chicago bustles with recreational activities around Lake Michigan. Many museums, shops, and restaurants provide the highest standard of living.
Even if you are heading to or from Chicago and need a trustworthy vehicle shipping service, A-1 Auto Transport should be your top choice.
Specialization
With partners like Lepke Auto Transport and Auto Driveway, we specialize in transportation services for cars, RVs, SUVs, trucks, and motorcycles, with transport models ranging from open-air to terminal-to-terminal.
Enclosed Auto Transport Service
Our enclosed auto transport service is an expert in transporting classic, luxury, and exotic vehicles. We deliver quality service to car owners and auto dealers, as well as special events like auctions.
Efficient Services
Having operated since 1998, A-1 Auto Transport offers reliable, efficient, and professional vehicle shipping services in Chicago.
Learn more about shipping to Illinois.
Why Choose A-1 Auto Transport for Your Chicago Car Shipping Needs?
Choosing A-1 Auto Transport means aligning with a well-reputed and trustworthy entity that delivers the utmost customer satisfaction. We are well-versed in handling your vehicle carefully and consistently delivering your parcel on time.
Why Us?
We will discuss why A-1 Auto Transport stands out for your car shipping needs in Chicago.
A-1 Auto Transport Trusted Since 1998
A-1 Auto Transport has been a leading name in the car shipping industry for over two decades. Our A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and 5-star customer rating on Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot speak about our quality service to the customers.
All our transporters are registered with the US Department of Transportation and the Federal Maritime Commission.
Our Partners
Our esteemed partners, who help guarantee the safety and smooth transport of your vehicle, include:
- Lepke Auto Transport
- Chicago Car Shipping
- Auto Driveaway National Office
- U A Vehicle Transport
- Auto Transport Logistics
- United Road Services: Hegewisch
- Danny's Car Transport
- Great American Vehicle Transport
- Progressive Auto Relocation
- AMPM Premium Car Carrier Co
- YBS Logistics
- Auto Driveway
Binding Price Quote
A-1 Auto Transport includes taxes, tolls, fuel, and insurance in the binding price quote. There are no hidden costs you need to pay.
We ensure complete transparency for our customers and give them peace of mind.
A-1 Auto Transport Company is Fully Insured
A-1 Auto Transport meets all regulatory requirements in Chicago and across the USA.
Your vehicle is entirely secure with $100,000 of protective insurance coverage. Customers can have peace of mind knowing that our trusted insurers back our coverage.
Full Inspection On Loading and Unloading
Our professional team creates a meticulous inspection report after conducting a thorough inspection of your vehicle before loading and unloading it for shipping. We encourage our customers to confirm the report's accuracy to prevent disputes or confusion.
Care and Attention
We handle your vehicle with the utmost care and attention, ensuring it is delivered to you in the exact condition in which it was picked up.
No Deposit Required
A-1 Auto Transport does not demand an upfront payment from our customers. We only take the payment after delivering your vehicle to the drop-off point. Our no-deposit policy reflects trust among our clients and eases their financial stress.
Have Peace of Mind
Since we handle all paperwork and documentation regarding crossing state borders and other regulatory permits, our customers can enjoy a hassle-free shipping experience and have peace of mind. Our experts ensure that your vehicle reaches its destination without any interruption.
Single Or Multiple Vehicle Shipping
Whether you need to transport a single vehicle or multiple vehicles, A-1 Auto Transport can meet your needs. We are skilled in transporting personal cars and commercial fleets, making us an excellent choice for car owners, auto dealers, and manufacturers.
Multiple Discount Factors
At A-1 Auto Transport, we offer different discount options for students, military personnel, and returning customers. Visit our deals page to save a substantial amount on your shipping cost.
How A-1 Auto Transport Ships Your Car?
Chicago A-1 Auto Transport stands out as the most reliable name for all your car shipping needs. From getting a free quote to the timely delivery of your vehicle, our experienced team handles every step of the transport process with outstanding professionalism and the utmost care.
Quote & Booking
You can instantly get a free quote for your vehicle shipping needs via A-1 Auto Transport’s website. Simply fill in your details online, and our streamlined system will provide you with accurate quotes, helping you make an informed and hassle-free decision.
Vehicle Pickup
All our drivers receive rigorous training to maintain our highest vehicle safety standards. Each driver is experienced and assures safety and efficient handling while mitigating any risks that may occur during the pickup process.
Safe and Secure Transportation
The foremost priority at A-1 Auto Transport is the safety of the vehicles during transportation. Our experienced team implements safety measures from pickup to delivery, ensuring your vehicle reaches its destination in pristine condition.
Insurance Coverage
Our insurance coverage provides customers with peace of mind, knowing that their assets are sound and secure throughout the entire journey.
Timely Vehicle Delivery
A-1 Auto Transport is committed to the timely delivery of vehicles, enhancing customer satisfaction. Our detailed planning in analyzing routes and taking customized routes to meet your specific needs ensures an efficient and flexible delivery service.
What Car Shipping Services Do A-1 Auto Transport Handle?
At A-1 Auto Transport, we deploy different transport models to meet our client's diverse needs while maintaining your vehicle's safety.
Whether you require a cost-effective or premium service, we've covered you.
Open-Air Auto Transport
Open-air auto transport is best suited for standard vehicles that do not require special care. Your car will be transported in bulk with other vehicles in an open trailer, which makes it inexpensive.
Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed auto transport is ideal for high-value vehicles such as classic, luxury, exotic, and limited-edition. It offers a premium service that protects your parcel from road debris, weather, and any other anomaly, ensuring your vehicle's utmost care and safety.
Door-to-Door
With a door-to-door approach, A-1 Auto Transport provides its clients with a hassle-free and stress-free experience. This service picks up the vehicle from your doorstep and delivers it to your backyard, saving you time and effort.
Terminal-to-Terminal
The terminal-to-terminal method is most suitable for customers who are willing to go the extra mile to deliver and pick up the vehicle from the terminal.
For your extra effort, you will save a significant amount of money, making it the cheapest option.
Expedited Shipping Options for Urgent Needs
A-1 Auto Transport caters to customers' urgent and specialized needs through our expedited shipping options.
This method is suited for time-sensitive situations, as it helps your asset reach its destination as quickly as possible.
Watch Video
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car?
Below are average cost estimates for popular routes to and from Chicago. For an exact amount, use our Car Shipping Cost Calculator.
Shipping To/From Chigato To: | Average Cost |
Indianapolis | $110 |
Kansas City | $305 |
Washington, D.C. | $420 |
New Orleans | $555 |
Miami Beach | $829 |
Salt Lake City | $838 |
Los Angeles | $1,046 |
*Prices and times for Chicago auto transport are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of vehicle you are shipping.
What Factors Affect Your Shipping Cost?
Several factors affect your shipping cost, including:
- Distance:
A longer distance requires increased fuel consumption and labor costs, which means a higher cost. The distance between the pickup and drop-off location directly impacts the shipping cost.
- Vehicle Size:
Smaller cars take up less space than SUVs and trucks, which require special handling and consume more space on the carrier.
Suppose your vehicle exceeds the standard weight and dimensions. In that case, it needs to be transported using a Step-deck trailer, Double-drop deck trailer, Lowboy trailer, or RGN trailer, depending on the requirement, which directly affects the overall cost.
- Transport Method:
If you choose open-air transport or terminal-to-terminal, it costs less, while enclosed transport is more costly due to the premium protection. Likewise, expedited shipping options used for particular criteria are also expensive.
- Time of Year:
Extreme weather conditions and lower carrier availability directly affect the price and vice versa.
- Specific Locations:
Remote locations require additional logistics compared to major cities. If additional logistics are involved, it adds up to the shipping cost.
- Mode of Transport:
Air transport is quick but costly compared to water and rail. Road transport offers a middle ground between speed and cost. Methods such as Roll-On/Roll-Off (ROLO) and Lift-On/Lift-Off (LOLO) also influence pricing.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car?
The time for your car to ship to or from Chicago depends on the distance and specific route used for the transport. Below is an estimated transit time for some of the popular routes:
To/From | Distance | Estimated Transit Time |
Indianapolis | 184 miles | 2-3 days |
Kansas City | 509 miles | 3-5 days |
Washington, D.C. | 700 miles | 3-5 days |
New Orleans | 925 miles | 3-5 days |
Miami Beach | 1,381 miles | 4-6 days |
Salt Lake City | 1,396 miles | 4-6 days |
Los Angeles | 1,744 miles | 5-7 days |
4 Things to Know Before Transporting Your Car
Here are the four essential things you should consider knowing before shipping your vehicle to or from Chicago for a smooth transport process:
Rules and Regulations:
- If your vehicle exceeds the standard weight and dimension limit, you must obtain oversized permits from the Illinois Department of Transportation.
- Conduct a thorough inspection and know your vehicle’s condition before shipping your car to document for insurance purposes.
- Your vehicle must meet the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards, including eligibility, testing locations, and compliance requirements.
Required Documents
Required Permits, Papers, Documents, and Registration of Chicago Car Shipping:
- Bill of Lading: Contract between you and the shipping company.
- Insurance Terms and Conditions: Know your insurance coverage details.
- Vehicle Title and Registration: Proof of legal registration and ownership.
- Proof of Insurance: Verify your vehicle’s insurance status.
- Photo Identification: Necessary for identity verification.
- Lienholder Authorization: Required if your vehicle is financed.
- Absent Owner Authorization: Someone else is handling your vehicle on your behalf.
- City Vehicle Sticker and Temporary Registration Permits (TRPs): Compliance with Chicago’s local regulation.
Laws Associated Car Shipping:
- Liability Coverage:
Illinois minimum liability coverage for auto transport is $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage:
It is necessary to safeguard against accidents with uninsured drivers.
- Carrier Insurance:
Auto transport carriers must have liability insurance ranging between $100,000 and $3,000,000, depending on the carrier type, to cover potential hazards during transport.
- Additional Coverage Options:
Includes collision, comprehensive, gap insurance, medical payments, rental reimbursement, and towing amount for extra protection.
About:
- Seasonal Impact:
Seasonal changes affect shipping costs. Extreme weather conditions during the winter, such as snow, ice and freezing temperatures, require more shipping costs.
- Toll Tags:
Get rid of all the toll tags from your vehicle to avoid unnecessary charges during transportation.
Popular Suburbs
Some of the popular suburbs of Chicago where you can find the perfect comfort of suburban life with the facilities of urban centers are as follows:
Located only 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville combines suburban calm with urban facilities. This suburb, which houses around 150,000 people, has exceptional schools, a vibrant downtown, and recreational parks.
Evanston offers a blend of quality education and scenic beauty. Located north of Chicago along Lake Michigan, this suburb has a variety of theaters, museums, and mesmerizing beaches.
Oak Park is situated west of downtown Chicago and is renowned for its historic architecture. One of the major highlights of this area is Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio.
Schaumburg offers a blend of commercial and residential settings. The availability of commercial centers like Woodfield Mall and family-friendly schools and parks provides a convenient lifestyle for its people.
Situated northwest of Chicago, Arlington Heights boasts a family-friendly neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Its excellent academics are contrasted by landmarks like Arlington Park and a premier horse racing venue.
Located north of Chicago, Skokie is renowned for its diversity and cultural landmarks like the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park and Westfield Old Orchard Mall. This suburb is an excellent place to live because of its vibrant lifestyle, diverse recreational options, and excellent schools.
Wilmette is a desirable neighborhood with excellent schools and a family-friendly environment. It offers a high quality of life backed by scenic beauty and notable attractions like the Baha’i House of Worship and Gillson Park.
Popular Shipping Routes
Our popular shipping routes from Chicago head towards these destinations:
New York, New York | Los Angeles, California | Houston, Texas | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | San Antonio, Texas | San Diego, California | Dallas, Texas |
| San Jose, California | Austin, Texas | Jacksonville, Florida | Fort Worth, Texas |
| Columbus, Ohio | Indianapolis, Indiana | Charlotte, North Carolina | San Francisco, California |
| Seattle, Washington | Denver, Colorado | Washington, District of Columbia | Nashville, Tennessee |
| Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | El Paso, Texas | Boston, Massachusetts | Portland, Oregon |
| Las Vegas, Nevada | Detroit, Michigan | Memphis, Tennessee | Louisville, Kentucky |
| Baltimore, Maryland | Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Albuquerque, New Mexico | Tucson, Arizona |
| Fresno, California | Sacramento, California | Kansas City, Missouri | Mesa, Arizona |
| Atlanta, Georgia | Omaha, Nebraska | Colorado Springs, Colorado | Raleigh, North Carolina |
| Long Beach, California | Virginia Beach, Virginia | Miami, Florida | Oakland, California |
| Minneapolis, Minnesota | Tulsa, Oklahoma | Bakersfield, California | Wichita, Kansas |
| Arlington, Texas | Aurora, Colorado | Tampa, Florida | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Cleveland, Ohio | Honolulu, Hawaii | Anaheim, California | Lexington, Kentucky |
| Stockton, California | Corpus Christi, Texas | Henderson, Nevada | Riverside, California |
| Newark, New Jersey | Saint Paul, Minnesota | Santa Ana, California | Cincinnati, Ohio |
| Irvine, California | Orlando, Florida | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Greensboro, North Carolina | Jersey City, New Jersey | Anchorage, Alaska | Lincoln, Nebraska |
| Plano, Texas | Durham, North Carolina | Buffalo, New York | Chandler, Arizona |
| Chula Vista, California | Toledo, Ohio | Madison, Wisconsin | Gilbert, Arizona |
| Reno, Nevada | Fort Wayne, Indiana | North Las Vegas, Nevada | St. Petersburg, Florida |
| Lubbock, Texas | Irving, Texas | Laredo, Texas | Winston–Salem, North Carolina |
Call Us at 1-888-230-9116 or Fill Up Our Form for a free car shipping quote for transporting your vehicle to or from Chicago today.
Vehicle Shipping: ZIP codes
60064, 60086, 60088, 60185, 60186, 60411, 60412, 60415, 60475, 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60607, 60608, 60609, 60610, 60611, 60612, 60613, 60614, 60615, 60616, 60617, 60618, 60619, 60620, 60621, 60622, 60623, 60624, 60625, 60626, 60628, 60629, 60630, 60631, 60632, 60633, 60634, 60636, 60637, 60638, 60639, 60640, 60641, 60642, 60643, 60644, 60645, 60646, 60647, 60649, 60651, 60652, 60653, 60654, 60655, 60656, 60657, 60659, 60660, 60661, 60664, 60666, 60668, 60669, 60670, 60673, 60674, 60675, 60677, 60678, 60680, 60681, 60682, 60684, 60685, 60686, 60687, 60688, 60689, 60690, 60691, 60693, 60694, 60695, 60696, 60697, 60699, 60701, 60706, 60707, 60803, 60804, 60805, 60827.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship my inoperable car using a transport carrier?
You can transport your unusable car. Here are three things for you to think about before choosing to do so:
- First, is shipping unusable cars something they do regularly?
- Are they an interstate authorized carrier?
- Third, are they prepared to transport your vehicle?
*NOTE—Be sure to ask the experts how to prepare your vehicle for transport best.
Can I always locate my car while it’s moving?
- You can use online tracking with some companies. For example, you will have tracking to follow your car.
- Other companies will keep you posted regularly.
- You can ask for an update when you want one.
- A driver may give you their cell number so you can call them.
How do I determine whether the transport company I want to choose has met all the insurance requirements?
Federal requirements state that all auto transport companies carry $750,000 minimum insurance.
Check out the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) page, Insurance Filling Requirements, to find out more.
You can also contact your insurance broker to help you think about how much insurance you might need for your comfort level.
How can I trust the quote I get from a transport company when wanting to ship my car?
Any transport company or broker will give you a quote on transporting your vehicle.
*IMPORTANT NOTE—Don’t give a deposit to any company in exchange for a quote. No company should ask for a deposit. If they do, it’s a sign that they aren’t legitimate.
Most companies or brokers have online calculators that allow you to plug in information about your transporting your vehicle to get an estimate.
We have an online estimator on our website for a free quote. You can also call one of our knowledgeable customer service representatives to answer any questions you may have. They also may be able to give you a more accurate quote after finding out more about your situation.
*NOTE—You will only be able to get an estimate on your transport cost, and it won’t be an actual quote until you are very close to your shipping date. Having to wait for a precise quote is because there are factors to consider when committing to a final quote: gas prices, weather, and route.
How can I register my car?
The city of Chicago expects you to display a city vehicle sticker within 30 days of becoming a resident of Chicago. (“New Resident Information for Drivers2 - Chicago”) If you are without a sticker after 30 days, there is a $120.00 fine.
Visit the official website of the City of Chicago to learn more.
What types of auto transport services does car transport offer?
Chicago Car Transport offers a variety of auto transport services, including:
- Open car transport: This is the most affordable type of auto transport, and it involves shipping your car on an open-air trailer. Open car transport is a good option for most vehicles, but it is important to note that your car will be exposed to the elements during transport.
- Enclosed car transport: Enclosed car transport is a more expensive option, but it provides the most protection for your vehicle. Enclosed car carriers are fully enclosed, so your car will not be exposed to the elements or to road debris. Enclosed car transport is a good option for luxury vehicles, classic cars, and vehicles with sensitive finishes.
- Door-to-door transport: Door-to-door transport is the most convenient type of auto transport, and it involves the carrier picking up your vehicle from your doorstep and delivering it to your desired destination. Door-to-door transport is available for both open and enclosed car transport.
- Expedited shipping: Expedited shipping is available for both open and enclosed car transport, and it guarantees that your vehicle will be delivered within a certain timeframe. Expedited shipping is a good option for customers who need their vehicle delivered quickly.
- International shipping: Chicago Car Transport also offers international shipping services. International shipping can be more complex than domestic shipping, so it is important to work with a reputable carrier that has experience shipping cars internationally.
In addition to these basic services, Chicago Car Transport also offers a variety of other services, such as:
- Vehicle tracking: Chicago Car Transport offers vehicle tracking services so that you can track the location of your vehicle at all times during transport.
- Insurance: Chicago Car Transport offers insurance for all of its shipments. This insurance covers your vehicle in the event of damage or loss during transport.
- Storage: Chicago Car Transport can store your vehicle at either its origin or destination location if needed. This is a good option for customers who are not ready to receive their vehicle immediately upon delivery.
When choosing an auto transport company, it is important to compare prices and services from multiple companies to find the best deal. It is also important to read reviews of different companies to get a sense of their reputation and customer service.
How can I trust the quote I get from a transport company when wanting to ship my car?
Trusting the quote you receive from an auto transport company when shipping your car to or from Chicago, IL, is essential to ensure you get a fair price and reliable service. Here are some steps to help you assess the trustworthiness of a transport company's quote:
1. Research Multiple Companies: Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Research and obtain quotes from several auto transport companies. This will give you a better idea of the average price for your specific route and needs.
2. Check Reviews and Reputation: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and online review platforms (e.g., Yelp, Google Reviews) can provide insight into a company's reputation. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback.
3. Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure that the auto transport company is licensed and insured. They should have the necessary permits to operate legally, and their insurance should cover potential damage to your vehicle during transit. You can ask for proof of insurance if necessary.
4. Understand the Services Included: Make sure you understand what is included in the quoted price. Some companies may offer a lower initial quote but have additional fees or exclude certain services. Ask for a detailed breakdown of the quote to avoid surprises.
5. Ask About Guarantees and Policies: Inquire about the company's policies regarding delivery times, delays, and damage claims. A reputable company should be transparent about these aspects and have clear procedures in place.
6. Get a Written Contract: Always get a written contract or agreement that outlines the terms, conditions, and pricing of the auto transport service. Review it carefully and ask questions about anything you don't understand before signing.
7. Beware of Extremely Low Quotes: If a quote seems significantly lower than others you've received, be cautious. Extremely low quotes may be a red flag indicating hidden fees or subpar service quality.
8. Ask for Recommendations: If you know anyone who has recently used an auto transport service, ask for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights and peace of mind.
9. Speak to a Representative: Don't hesitate to call the company and speak with a representative. This can help you gauge their professionalism, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns.
10. Consider Payment Terms: Be cautious if a company requires a large upfront deposit before scheduling your transport. Reputable companies typically request a deposit of a reasonable amount with the balance due upon delivery.
By taking these steps, you can better evaluate the trustworthiness of the quotes you receive from auto transport companies and make an informed decision about which company to choose for your car shipping needs. Remember that price should not be the sole factor in your decision; reliability, reputation, and customer service are equally important.
How much does it cost to ship a car?
The cost to ship a car from Chicago, Illinois to Memphis, Tennessee varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of car you are shipping, the time of year, and the auto transport company you choose. However, you can expect to pay between $379 and $1,182 for this service.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the cost of shipping a car:
- Type of car: The type of car you are shipping can affect the cost of shipping in a few ways. For example, larger cars and cars with expensive finishes may cost more to ship.
- Time of year: The time of year can also affect the cost of shipping. Shipping rates are typically higher during peak season, which is typically from May to September.
- Auto transport company: The auto transport company you choose can also affect the cost of shipping. Different companies have different rates and fees.
To get the most accurate estimate for shipping your car from Chicago to Memphis, it is best to get quotes from multiple auto transport companies. You can also use a car shipping calculator to get an estimate.
How much does it cost to ship a car?
The average cost to ship a car from Chicago to California is $722 and $1,127. The cost to ship a car from Chicago to California varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of car you are shipping, the time of year, and the auto transport company you choose.
Can I ship my inoperable car using a transport carrier?
Yes, you can ship an inoperable car using a transport carrier to or from Chicago, IL, but you will need to inform the auto transport company in advance and make specific arrangements for the shipment of a non-operational vehicle.
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Twitter
Google 
Instagram 
Trustpilot 
